Addiction

What is Addiction? Being addicted to something means that you have an unhealthy attachment to it—you crave it, and you will do anything to get it again. You can be addicted to a hard drug like cocaine...

Being addicted to something means that you have an unhealthy attachment to it—you crave it, and you will do anything to get it again. You can be addicted to a hard drug like cocaine or meth, but you can also be addicted to coffee or binge watching a certain reality TV show. When we talk about addiction on You Matter, we’re really focusing on illicit drugs and alcohol.

Drug addiction can majorly mess with physical and mental health, screw up your relationships, and even land you in jail. Substance abuse is a complex disease and once you become addicted quitting can be very difficult on your own.

Alcohol addiction is particularly tricky because drinking, even binge drinking, is socially acceptable. Some people are able to drink a few times a week without becoming addicted while others feel an uncontrollable urge to get drunk after just a sip. Control is the important thing here. If you feel like you have no control over your drinking, you may be an alcoholic.

Thank you for reaching out to our community and sharing this resource. Don’t forget to also spread the word about our phone number: 1-800-273-TALK (8255). We’re here for those struggling through any situation.

I’m addicted to nicotine. It’s been tearing me apart mentally. I seem to get an upset stomach and very irritable and moody when I’m trying to stop. I would like to find a way to ease off over time, but my mother is in very bad shape from cigarettes and I feel like I need to take action now before I end up the same from my addiction.

Kyle, we’re glad you’re reaching out for help. Feel free to call 1-800-273-TALK (8255) so that you can find out what resources are available in your area to help you stop smoking. Your call is routed to the Lifeline center closest to your area code. The local crisis center may have resources that you can take advantage of.